chiaroscuro: Meaning and Definition of

chi•a•ro•scu•ro

1. the distribution of light and shade in a picture.
2. the use of deep variations in and subtle gradations of light and shade, esp. to enhance the delineation of character and for general dramatic effect: Rembrandt is a master of chiaroscuro.
3. a woodcut print in which the colors are produced by the use of different blocks with different colors.
4. a sketch in light and shade.